Joey Belladonna, frontman for legendary thrash metal band ANTHRAX, took center stage at the Upstate Medical University Arena in Syracuse, New York to perform the National Anthem at the Syracuse Crunch ice hockey game against the Rochester Americans
On December 23, Belladonna stepped away from the usual metal mayhem to deliver a powerful rendition of the U.S. national anthem before the hockey showdown. This isn’t the first time the iconic vocalist has lent his talents to the sporting world, having sung “The Star-Spangled Banner” at various events over the past several years.
Joey shared video of his performance on his social media and wrote in an accompanying message: “Pleasure spending the evening with the Crunch fans and family!”
In a recent interview with “Panini Unwrapped,” Belladonna shared his thoughts on the unique experience of performing the national anthem in front of diverse crowds, many of whom may not recognize his name or ANTHRAX‘s music. “I just love doing the anthem,” he said. “People get off on it. And I really respect the game and the anthem itself, so it’s a pleasure to be able to be asked to be a part of that.”
When Belladonna was asked how he would compare singing the anthem at sporting events to performing in front of massive audiences with ANTHRAX, Joey said: “The anthem is even more tense, because you’re all by yourself, everything goes quiet, and there’s really no key to sing in. I just kind of go out there and just wing it, but I like to keep it traditional. But it is a very unnerving… Once it’s ten minutes before they give you the okay [to go out there and sing], it’s, like, ‘Woah!’ I’ve gotten nervous, but once you get going, you just focus on doing it.”
Joey Belladonna‘s return to ANTHRAX in 2010 marked a significant reunion with the band he fronted from 1984 to 1992. As an integral part of ANTHRAX‘s classic lineup, alongside Dan Spitz, Scott Ian, Frank Bello, and Charlie Benante, Belladonna‘s voice resonated on over 10 albums, collectively selling a staggering eight million copies worldwide.
ANTHRAX, a pioneer in the thrash metal genre, celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2021. Formed in Queens, New York, on July 18, 1981, by Scott Ian and bassist Dan Lilker, ANTHRAX swiftly rose to prominence alongside other thrash metal giants like METALLICA, SLAYER, and MEGADETH. The band’s impact on the genre is immeasurable, solidifying its position as a leader in the thrash metal movement.
With 11 studio albums, multiple gold and platinum certifications, six Grammy nominations, and a global touring history dating back to 1984, ANTHRAX has left an indelible mark on the music scene. From headlining Madison Square Garden to playing Yankee Stadium with the “Big Four,” the band’s legacy is a testament to their enduring influence over five decades of metal mayhem.
Joey Belladonna‘s rendition of the national anthem at the ice hockey arena might be a departure from the usual ANTHRAX experience, but it showcases the versatility and enduring appeal of one of metal’s most iconic voices. As ANTHRAX continues to celebrate its storied history, Belladonna‘s performance at the hockey game adds another unforgettable chapter to the band’s remarkable journey.